Krishna talks about the universal influence of the three gunas—sattva (goodness), rajas (passion), and tamas (ignorance)—which are inherent qualities of nature. He asserts that no being, whether human or celestial, is exempt from the influence of these three gunas, as they are an integral part of the material world and shape the characteristics and behaviours of all living entities. His statement emphasizes the pervasive nature of the three gunas in the manifested universe. The gunas, arising from prakriti (nature), govern the thoughts, actions, and attributes of all beings, irrespective of their status or realm of existence. Whether on earth or in the celestial realms, every being is subject to the interplay of the three gunas, which influence their temperament, behaviour, and consciousness.

The term "sattva" refers to purity, harmony, and goodness; "rajas" denotes activity, passion, and restlessness; and "tamas" signifies inertia, darkness, and ignorance. These three gunas interact dynamically, determining the predominant qualities exhibited by individuals and shaping their experiences and perceptions of the world.

Krishna's teachings in this verse highlight the inherent nature of the material world as characterized by the interplay of the three gunas. He clarifies that liberation (moksha) does not entail freedom from the influence of the gunas but rather transcending their limitations and attaining spiritual realization beyond the realm of material nature.

Furthermore, Krishna's instruction underscores the importance of understanding the nature of the gunas in spiritual practice. By discerning the qualities of sattva, rajas, and tamas and striving to cultivate sattvic qualities such as purity, selflessness, and wisdom, individuals can progress on the path of spiritual evolution and attain higher states of consciousness.

In essence, this verse from the Bhagavad Gita conveys the profound truth of the universal influence of the three gunas in shaping the characteristics and behaviour of all beings. It emphasizes the importance of spiritual discernment and self-awareness in navigating the complexities of material existence and attaining liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Through cultivating sattvic qualities and transcending the limitations of the gunas, individuals can realize their divine nature and experience true freedom and fulfilment in life.